The effects of a pedometer-based behavioral modification program with telephone support on physical activity and sedentary behavior in type 2 diabetes patients.

OBJECTIVE: Effectiveness of a behavioral modification program on physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior in diabetes patients.

METHODS: Ninety-two patients were randomly assigned to an intervention or control group. The 24-weeks intervention consisted of a face-to-face session, pedometer and seven telephone follow-ups. Mean selection criteria were 35-75 years; 25-35 kg/m(2); ≤ 12% HbA1c, treated for type 2 diabetes; no PA limitations. PA and sedentary behavior were measured by pedometer, accelerometer and questionnaire over the short- (24 weeks) and intermediate- (1 year) term.

RESULTS: The intervention group increased their steps/day by 2744, their total PA by 23 min/day (p<0.001) and decreased their sedentary behavior by 23 min/day (p<0.05) post-intervention. After 1 year the intervention group still had an increase of 1872 steps/day, 11 min/day total PA and a decrease of 12 min/day in sedentary behavior (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION: This pedometer-based behavioral modification program with telephone support showed lasting positive effects on steps/day, PA and sedentary behavior.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: This study tested a convenient way to increase PA among type 2 diabetes patients.